Rugby World Cup 2011: Kiwi Blair impressed by Scots style

While the eyes of the rugby world were focusing on New Zealand and its hosting of the global tournament, a young kiwi player was moving in the opposition direction to take up a role at Boroughmuir and, on Saturday, Bryce Blair, 26, will make his fifth consecutive start, against Currie at Meggetland.

“People here started to switch on to the prospect of a World Cup a couple of months ago but back home the build-up started three and a half years ago and it was all getting a bit too much even for rugby enthusiasts like me,” joked prop forward Blair.

“In many ways I’m sorry to be missing the tournament and I do think New Zealand can fulfil expectations, but it is also good to be travelling overseas for the first time, especially to a club like Boroughmuir.”

Formerly with the North Harbour province under-23 squad, Blair was recommended by Calvin Howarth, a former ’Muir star once tipped as a possible Scotland cap.

“My early impressions are that rugby in Scotland isn’t as physical but makes up for that with speed, effort and technical ability,” added Bryce.